Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim heads into this weekend’s Manchester derby with something Erik ten Hag never enjoyed – genuine squad depth.
Amorim has been heavily backed since taking charge at Old Trafford, and he now finds himself with multiple options across defence and midfield.
Read Also: Liverpool Handed Major Boost As Midfielder Returns To Training
The biggest boost for the Portuguese coach is the return of Noussair Mazraoui, who is fit again after a long spell on the sidelines.
Mazraoui Adds Depth to Amorim’s System
The Moroccan international was a standout performer in his debut season, making 57 appearances and winning praise for his versatility.
Mazraoui has featured at wing-back on both flanks and even in central defence, giving Amorim tactical flexibility that Ten Hag rarely had.
Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredricson are all competing for places in Amorim’s back three, making his defensive options stronger than ever.
Some fans criticised Amorim for experimenting with Amad as a wing-back last term, but Mazraoui offers a more natural defensive balance, reports MEN.
Meanwhile, Amorim also boasts attacking weapons like Bryan Mbeumo, Mason Mount and Matheus Cunha, all of whom are returning to fitness.
By contrast, Ten Hag was often forced to improvise when injuries struck, particularly at left-back after Shaw and Tyrell Malacia were sidelined.
Now, Amorim has a squad capable of executing his philosophy, with midfielders like Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte providing plenty of choice.
COMMENTS